RELATIVES of a 20-year-old man killed in a car crash on Saturday have paid tribute to him.

Father-of-one Kailen Spreadbury died after the red Ford Fiesta he was a passenger in collided with a black Vauxhall Vectra after going through the central reservation on Essex Yeomanry Way.

His nine-month-old son had also been in the car but after being taken to Broomfield Hospital was released into the care of his family.

A talented footballer who had been on the books at both West Ham United and Chelsea's academy teams, Mr Spreadbury had also been talented at golf and tennis.

His mother Karen said he will be fondly remembered and missed greatfully.

"He was hated by none, he was loved by all, envied by a few and will be remembered for being awesome," she said.

His father Warren added: "He wasn’t only my son, he was my best mate also.

"He was proud to be a father to his 9-month-old son, and was devoted to his partner.”

The 18-year-old female driver of the Fiesta is currently in a critical but stable condition at the Royal London Hospital.

Two ladies in the Vectra were also taken to hospital following the crash which happened at about 1pm.

The 64-year-old driver is in a stable condition at Broomfield Hospital while the passenger is in a serious but stable condition at Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge.

Anyone with information about this crash is urged to contact Pc Pete Harris at the Essex Police Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 101 or email collisionappeal@essex.pnn.police.uk.